Musk and Bessent's White House clash over IRS reform escalates
An intense exchange of words took place at the White House between Elon Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, according to information from American media. The dispute concerned the reform of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – the government agency responsible for tax collection.
Main points
- Elon Musk and Scott Bessent clashed at the White House over IRS reform.
- Musk favours an aggressive approach to changes, while Bessent advocates for stabilisation.
- President Trump established a team of individuals with strong views on policy.
Last week, an intense exchange of words occurred at the White House between Elon Musk, head of the Government Efficiency Department, and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. As reported by the New York Post, the discussion about the IRS reform was so loud it caught President Trump's attention.
According to sources close to the White House, the conflict arose from differing visions of reform. Musk advocates for a more aggressive approach, while Bessent focuses on stabilisation. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who was present, appeared to support Musk, according to leaks. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasised that differences of opinion are normal in the political process.
It’s no secret President Trump has put together a team of people who are incredibly passionate about the issues impacting our country. Disagreements are a normal part of any healthy policy process, said the White House press secretary.
American media indicate that the dispute between Musk and Bessent began to escalate on 16 April, when Trump appointed Gary Shapley as the acting IRS commissioner. He was reportedly suggested by Musk, while Bessent wanted Deputy Treasury Secretary Michael Faulkender for the position.
Musk also wants to integrate various software systems, which he believes would revolutionise IRS data management. However, this raises concerns because IRS data is particularly sensitive, reflecting the financial details of millions of Americans and businesses, including their incomes, employers, losses, investments, dependants, and other items.
Musk and his public disputes
This is not the first time Musk has publicly clashed with members of the Trump administration. Previously, he expressed dissatisfaction with Bessent's appointment as Treasury Secretary, preferring Lutnick. Musk had earlier advocated for Lutnick to become Treasury Secretary, arguing he would "enact change", while Bessent is a "business as usual" choice. Musk also got into a conflict on platform X with trade and manufacturing advisor Peter Navarro.
Musk plans to limit his presence in the government at the end of May, when his role as a special government employee ends. Despite this, he stated he would remain open to collaboration on matters related to DOGE.
